Walter Page’s Blue Devils

Walter Page's Blue Devils was an influential American jazz "territory band" active from 1925 to 1931, primarily touring the Southwest. Led by Walter Page, a pioneer of the "walking" bass line in jazz, the band was known for its outstanding musicians, including singer Jimmy Rushing and pianist Count Basie. Though they recorded only once, their reputation was significant, and many of its members later joined the Bennie Moten band, eventually forming the core of Count Basie's renowned orchestra. The Blue Devils were part of the vibrant Kansas City jazz scene, characterized by a relaxed rhythmic feel and the use of riffs.12